Situated in the north-eastern part of Zambia, the South Luangwa National Park occupies 9050 sq. kms along the banks of the Luangwa River, one of Africa’s last, large undammed rivers and which ultimately flows into the great Zambezi.
The natural floods and ebbs of this wild river have resulted in multiple rich, ancient floodplains and ox-bow lagoons fringed by lush forests that attract a huge variety of mammals and birds.
Well known for its prides of lion, packs of wild dog, herds of buffalo, one of Africa’s largest hippo populations and several endemic species such as the Thornicroft’s giraffe, Crawshay’s zebra and Cookson’s wildebeest – some 60+ mammal species in total. And then there are over 400 bird species from jewel-like sunbirds through to gorgeous crowned cranes.
The South Luangwa is also replete with awe-inspiring safari experiences, from the traditional and adrenaline-inducing walking safari to game drives in our luxury Landcruisers, perfected and outfitted for safari drives both during the day and at night.
Known as the “Valley of the Leopard” the South Luangwa has featured on numerous wildlife documentaries
The National Park has enjoyed protection since the 1930’s and much of its status can be attributed to the late Norman Carr who spent most of his life exploring and protecting “the valley”, and who pioneered the walking safari as Zambia knows it today.
Although the Luangwa River is not deep enough to allow safaris on the water during the dry season, this is made up for by the sheer volume and diversity of wildlife along its banks and a safari here should be on everybody’s bucket list.
Combining the South Luangwa and Lower Zambezi National Parks on safari with Chiawa, especially when staying at a combination of our Chiawa Safaris camps – makes for the ultimate Zambian safari and one of Africa’s most desirable wildlife adventures.
A vast, unspoiled ecosystem with habitats varying from undulating hills to forests and grassland to riverine woodland and flood plain. These vary greatly with the seasons, greatly affecting the movements of the wildlife which call this vast and varied ecosystem home, and also enticing our passionate guests to return at different times of the year to really enjoy and observe the dramatic changing of the landscapes. And our two safari camps, the award-winning luxury safari lodge Puku Ridge and the completely rebuilt Chichele Presidential, are located center stage!
The diversity and quantity of the park’s wildlife is world famous and we are fortunate that both Chichele Presidential and Puku Ridge are perfectly within this unspoiled paradise. This is one of nature’s great spectacles; home to more than 60 mammal species including Africa’s greatest hippopotamus population, huge herds of buffalo, uncountable antelopes, warthogs and zebras … and the predators that follow them!
Notable are the endemic Thornicroft’s giraffe, Cookson’s wildebeest and Crawshay’s zebra – all not found elsewhere on the planet but in the South Luangwa. There are more than 400 species of birds in the South Luangwa thanks to the diverse geography of its landscapes – raptors, song birds, water fowl, migrants and whatever else takes flight – this is an avian paradise where any number of “lifers” await for even the most accomplished of ‘twitchers’.
Chiawa Safaris is proud to offer two incredible South Luangwa accommodation options. The luxury safari camp, Puku Ridge, is fast becoming one of the most popular luxury lodges to stay at in the South Luangwa and already winning multiple awards and accolades. More recently, the super luxurious Chichele Presidential lodge reopened its doors to those guests wanting more contemporary comfort and luxury whilst not forgoing superb guiding and wildlife experiences.
The eight magical suites at Puku Ridge are set on an elevated ridge overlooking plain and woodlands, full of wildlife. A whisper-quiet air conditioning system an overhead fans, ensure a supremely comfortable stay, along with indoor and outdoor showers, a deep bath overlooking your private plunge pool, and an expansive deck from which to watch wildlife trail by. And of course, the brilliant rooftop starbed for a most enlightening night’s sleep.
Each of Chichele’s 10 Vista Suites (one with wheelchair access) provides an expanse of private indoor and outdoor space, with a sitting room, bedroom, bathroom and covered veranda with plunge pool and outdoor shower. A super-king or large twin bed configuration with air conditioning and overhead fans, all within a stylish take on the mosquito net. Ensuite facilities include a private wc and indoor shower plus “his & hers” washbasins and huge bathtub with view. A covered veranda with private pool and outdoor shower overlook the valley and wildlife.
A visit to Zambia wouldn’t be complete without a safari in the Lower Zambezi, and you must absolutely stay at one, or both, of our award-winning Zambezi safari lodges. Pristine wilderness, uncrowded safari experiences and renowned wildlife encounters abound, whether you choose to stay at Old Mondoro or Chiawa Camp.
Zambia, like many African safari destinations, has a wet season and a dry season. The best time to visit the South Luangwa National Park is during the dry season from May to November. Wildlife viewing and photographic opportunity abounds when water supplies dwindle and the bush starts to thin out. If you can handle higher temps, then September and October are fantastic for wildlife sightings.
Puku Ridge
The reimagined Puku Ridge, located well inside the incredible South...
Chichele Presidential
Chichele Presidential holds the South Luangwa’s prime vantage point, with...
Activities in South Luangwa
Safari Activities Abound in the South Luangwa National Park
Lower Zambezi National Park
Situated on the banks of the Zambezi River in the...
